statistics

Pronunciation: /stəˈtɪstɪks/

noun

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of statistics

The science of collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting numerical data, often used to infer patterns, trends, or relationships within a given context.

Origin of statistics

Language of origin: Latin (via German)

Root word: status

Original meaning: state, condition

How it evolved: Originally used to describe data collected about the state or government, it evolved to encompass the broader science of data analysis.

The word 'statistics' originates from the Latin 'status', meaning 'state', and was later adapted in German as 'Statistik', referring to the analysis of data about the state or government.

First known use: Late 18th century

How to Remember statistics

Think of 'statistics' as 'status-ticks': it helps you keep track (ticks) of the status or state of things using numbers.

Synonyms for statistics

  • data
  • figures
  • metrics
  • numerics
  • analytics
  • information
  • quantifications
  • measurements

Antonyms of statistics

  • anecdotes
  • narratives
  • opinions
  • qualitative descriptions

statistics in a Sentence

  1. The professor emphasized that understanding statistics is crucial for making data-driven decisions in the business world.
  2. Advanced statistics allowed the researchers to identify subtle correlations between the variables in their study.
  3. Without a solid grasp of statistics, interpreting complex datasets can quickly become overwhelming.

statistics in Literature & Culture

Statistics plays a pivotal role in both academic and professional settings, from analyzing election results to tracking sports performance, and is often referenced in literature and political discourse.

Usage Notes

The word 'statistics' is always plural in form but can be singular or plural in usage, depending on whether it refers to the field of study (singular) or specific data points (plural).

Why statistics Matters for GRE & SAT

Understanding 'statistics' is essential for interpreting data-driven arguments, a common feature in GRE quantitative and analytical writing sections.

Word Family

statistical (adjective)
Relating to or derived from statistics.
statistically (adverb)
In a manner involving or based on statistics.
statistician (noun)
An expert in or practitioner of statistics.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'statistics' was first coined in the 18th century to describe data collection about states and populations.
  • Florence Nightingale, the famous nurse, was also a pioneer in the use of statistics to improve public health.
  • Statistics is sometimes called the 'science of uncertainty' because it helps us make predictions in the face of incomplete information.
  • empirical
  • quantitative
  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

More Vocabulary Words Starting with S

  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

Learned in